What is Sculptra™?

Sculptra™ is a synthetic injectable material known as “poly-L-lactic acid.” Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible (a material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants, and other types of implants.

How does Sculptra™ work?

Sculptra™ is injected below the surface of the skin in the area of lipoatrophy (fat loss), providing a gradual increase in skin thickness. Visible results appear within the first few treatment sessions.

Do I need a skin test before being treated with Sculptra™?

No skin testing is required prior to the injection.

Are the results from Sculptra™ immediate?

The Sculptra™ injection takes time to gradually correct the depression in your skin. Dr. Rajagopal will see you again in a few weeks to evaluate the results. Some patients may require a touch up

How many treatments are required?

Dr. Rajagopal will decide the appropriate number of treatment sessions and the amount of Sculptra™ you will need at each session. Patients with severe facial fat loss may require 3 to 6 treatment sessions.

How long do treatment results last?

The effects of Sculptra™ are enduring. In a clinical study, effects lasted for up to 2 years after the first treatment session in most patients.

Do injections of Sculptra™ hurt?

As with any injection, injections with Sculptra™ may hurt. However, Sculptra™ is injected in small amounts using a very fine needle. Dr. Rajagopal may apply a topical or local anesthetic.

What can I expect after treatment?

Immediately following a treatment session with Sculptra™, some redness, swelling, pain, bruising or all of these signs can happen in the treatment area. These signs usually go away in a few hours to a few days. Dr. Rajagopal will give you specific post-treatment care instructions. Most patients feel comfortable going back to their normal activities following treatment.

What are the possible side effects of treatment with Sculptra™?

The most common side effects with the use of Sculptra™ include injection-related side effects at the site of the injection such as bleeding, tenderness or pain, redness, bruising, or swelling. These side effects generally subside within a few days.

Sculptra™ is a synthetic injectable material known as “poly-L-lactic acid.” Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible (a material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants, and other types of implants.

Sculptra™ adds volume to aging faces by both filling in wrinkles and by stimulating your body to produce new collagen. This results in a fuller, more youthful appearance.

San Francisco Plastic Surgery and Laser Center Info

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr Usha Rajagopal and her highly trained staff bring an integrated and comprehensive team approach, along with women’s insight and sensitivity, to the art of cosmetic surgery.

Located in beautiful Union Square, the practice-the San Francisco Plastic Surgery and Laser Center-has been a Bay Area leader for 20 years for cosmetic plastic surgery of the face, breast and body.